The Best Papasan Chair

Buying Guide

Papasan chairs are bowl-shaped chairs that are usually made of rattan. You may be more familiar with the phrase “moon chairs,” a 1970s term for these comfortable seats that are making a big comeback. They are lightweight, versatile and extremely comfortable.

Papasan chairs have large, round cushions and work well for most body types. They usually have a base, cushion basket, cushion and sometimes a separate cushion cover. The cushions come in different thicknesses and can be filled with different materials. The covers can be made from fleece, polyester, faux fur and other fabrics.

Remember that a quality cushion is just as important as a sturdy frame. A thin cushion will not provide as much support, but some buyers may not require that extra padding. See if the product description shows how thick that cushion actually is.

These chairs are not heavy, but they can be large, so measure your area before making a purchase. Look for features like folding frames, which make them easier to transport, move or store away.

• Classic papasan chairs have real or faux wicker or rattan used in their frames. Natural rattan can be quite expensive, so you may prefer a more affordable option.
• Most papasan chair product descriptions will include the measurements, so look for that information when comparing chairs.
• Check to see how much weight the chair can accommodate. Putting too much weight on the chair can cause it to break.
• Some papasan chair cushions are made with welted sides, which can make the cushion more durable.
• There are indoor and outdoor papasan chairs, so if you plan to use them outdoors make sure that it is built for that purpose.